Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Hospital Services” mean on my bill? I didn’t go to the hospital for my care.
Medicare allows hospitals to bill for both the physician and hospital outpatient services, in two separate charges, when a patient is seen in a physician office owned by a hospital. Most hospitals have opted to utilize this approach to billing.
For many years, the Clinic has not billed for services provided in physician offices this way—instead patients received only one charge that combined both physician and overhead expenses.
How will it be reflected on my billing statement?
Your billing statement includes two separate charges for each visit – one for the physician’s services and another for the hospital outpatient facility and technical services. The hospital outpatient facility and technical services charge will be clearly defined on your bill under the description “Hospital Services.”
Will Medicare or my health insurance cover this?
Most Medicare patients will be covered by their supplemental insurance and will not have to pay more out-of-pocket. Medicare patients without supplemental insurance will pay a small amount.
Patients with health insurance will need to check with their insurance provider to determine what will be covered by their insurance plan. Cost will vary based on the type of benefit plan you have. Most patients will not have to pay any additional dollars out-of-pocket.
What type of questions should I ask my health insurance company?
Ask your health insurance company whether it covers facility charges or provider-based billing. If it does, ask what percentage of the charge is covered.
Who can I call at Cleveland Clinic with questions?
Please call Patient Financial Services at 216-445-6249, or toll free at 866-621-6385, and we will help answer your questions.
